A NEW junction of the M8 motorway is now open at Bishopton, three months ahead of schedule.

The multi-million pound Junction 29A project connects Bishopton and surrounding areas to Scotland’s busiest motorway, giving residents improved transport links to Glasgow and beyond.

It has been completed as part of BAE Systems’ ongoing transformation of the former Royal Ordnance Factory site into the Dargavel Village housing development.

Steve Fogg, of BAE Systems, said: “The opening of this new junction is a major milestone in our efforts to deliver Dargavel Village and we’re delighted to be opening it ahead of schedule and in time for the festive season.

“We are continuing to invest in the local infrastructure to support the development of Dargavel Village and we look forward to seeing the area grow and develop in the future.”

Construction of the new junction began in January 2017 and was undertaken by UK-based civil engineering company Morgan Sindall Infrastructure.

More than 50 companies were involved in the design and build process.

Renfrewshire North and West MSP Derek Mackay said he is pleased the new junction has opened ahead of schedule. 

He added: “This is one of the flagship projects of the Dargavel development.

“I’m sure the opening will be welcomed by the community and will make a huge difference to accessibility locally.”

BAE Systems began redeveloping the former Royal Ordnance Factory site in 2012 and it now has more than 1,200 homes.

When completed in 2034, Dargavel Village will consist of 4,000 new homes, a primary school, a community centre, a day nursery, a health centre, retail, amenity and leisure facilities and Dargavel Country Park – a 1,300-acre woodland area surrounding the village.

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